“Effective internal communications can keep employees engaged in the business and help companies retain key talent, provide consistent value to customers, and deliver superior financial performance to shareholders,” according to the Watson Wyatt Effective Communication 2009/2010 ROI Study Report. Watson Wyatt Worldwide, Inc., a global consulting firm, merged with Towers Perrin in January 2010 to form Towers Watson.

If you needed further proof of the power of communication, Watson Wyatt reports that companies that communicate effectively had a 47% higher return to shareholders between 2004 and 2009. So the question becomes this: can you afford not to communicate effectively?

The Three Traits of Effective Communicators

Communication Takes Courage

“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.”

– Winston Churchill

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines courage as “the ability to do something that you know is difficult or dangerous.” When it comes to communication, Watson Wyatt defines courage as “telling it like it is.” There will be times when you have to deliver bad news to employees. There will be times when you have to make an unpopular decision. As an employer or manager, you have to have the courage to effectively communicate with your employees.

According to Watson Wyatt, this type of straight-forward, honest, and open communication can be rewarding. By telling your employees what they need to know, you show them that you respect them and they will reward you by giving extra effort.

Communication Requires Innovation

“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”

– Steve Jobs

A business can survive by maintaining the status quo, but it will never thrive – it will never grow. And your employees must be encouraged to think creatively and innovatively and have the courage (see, it’s all connected) to communicate these ideas with management. Innovation starts with a strong corporate culture, and it thrives through effective communication.

Communication and Discipline

“Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment.”

– Jim Rohn

Everything in business isn’t all fun and game, but you already knew that. From time to time, you will need to discipline employees and when this happens, open and honest communication is important at all times. This type of employee/manage – employee relationship will help breed respect and should encourage your employees to adhere to the company’s protocols.

“Courage, innovation and discipline help drive company performance especially in tough economic times,” according to the Watson Wyatt report.

Learn HOW to Communicate with Terrapin Adventures

Conveniently located between Baltimore and Washington DC, Terrapin Adventures is able to create a customized program (onsite or offsite, indoor or outdoor) to help better your business. Through a series of unique and interactive activities, we will knock down communication barriers, allowing your staff to work efficiently and cohesively as a productive unit.